Like one of Amy's braided rugs, our lives are woven with different strands.

Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Tablecloth

I find myself hesitant to post what projects I've completed recently because I don't want this to become a "brag blog." I enjoy seeing the projects others complete (and the inspiration I get from them), and I'm proud of what I make and I like hearing positive comments from friends. But I've also noticed that sometimes when I read certain blogs, I can easily think I'm not crafty enough or

doing enough in some area or other of my life - and it's all because I'm comparing myself to someone else in an unhealthy way. All that to say, I hope these posts don't cause that in anyone else.

A friend of mine (that's you, LJL!) recently complimented me on my time management skills that allow me to get these projects done while also taking care of a household. I have to add a disclaimer: for every project I complete, there are mornings, afternoons and nights when I leave dirty dishes in the sink, or the laundry is piled on the futon waiting for me to fold it and put it away, or the bathroom is crying out to be cleaned, etc.. I don't get these projects done AND have a sparkling house. I find it's one or the other. Just had to be clear on that.

I accepted a job this summer to make a custom-designed tablecloth for the client of a friend of mine. Let me tell you, this was one of the most challenging sewing projects I've faced. It involved some online research (what would I do without online tutorials??), multiple measurement calculations, pattern-making and lots of ironing and sewing (and a lot of breath-holding and prayer, I might add). I was definitely stretched by this project, and at times I questioned my sanity in taking it on. All that to say, the tablecloth was finally and completely finished (with some altering involved) just this past month. I got good feedback from my friend and her client, and I cannot tell you how relieved I was, even though I know I did my best to make it according to specifications and the hoped-for design.

It's a bit large on our table, but you can get a general idea of what it looks like. The design on the top is an onlay (stitched on top) while the band near the bottom is an inlay.

2 comments:

I love seeing your projects. It's nice to know you are as normal as me - laundry and dishes waiting while other projects and work get done. I don't feel like you are bragging, more like sharing your creativity in the way an artist would. That's how I look at it anyway. Beth Hess

Intro

Welcome to our blog! This is a venue for sharing some of our photos, reflections and updates on our lives. We created this blog because of our trip to Zambia in early 2009, but it will continue beyond our two months in southern Africa. Have a look around and feel free to send us your comments.